Summer is slowly coming to an end. Fall is just around the corner. And school is about to begin any day now. What an emotional time for everyone—kids, parents, and grandparents!

You have to admit, the start of a new school year conjures up many memories for us. Remember getting all those brand new school supplies (especially that cool big-kid box of 64 crayons with a built-in sharpener)? Those spiffy new school shoes? Maybe even a new outfit? Remember going to bed the night before the big day, all nervous, anxious, and excited at the same time? And remember not being able to sleep while checking your alarm clock every half hour?

Well, today’s kids are no different. They’re probably a little sad that summer’s over. They’re probably scared of what to expect, from classmates to classroom to teacher. And they’re probably as ready as they’ll ever be to face a new year of challenges, growth, and rewards.

Help make your child’s or grandchild’s adventure a little less stressful—and a lot more fun! Start by getting organized. This handy back-to-school checklist is divided by grade and should be a big help. Then send a cheerful card to get them in the right frame of mind and let them know you care.

We’ve also come up with some other creative ways to add more fun. For instance, make a cute bookmark using your child’s own photo. Spiff up some pencils to make them appear more festive. Cover notebooks with colorful inspirational quotes. Make an easy desk organizer. Get fresh ideas for a variety of healthy-yet-delicious lunches. Or print a sign for that adorable “first-day-of-school” photo in front of your house. You’re the one making happy memories now!

Spring is in the air, and we’re celebrating St. Patrick’s Day, the first day of Spring, and Easter this month. With so many celebrations packed into one month, it’s a great time to get those creative juices flowing and make something that’s representative of this uplifting time. Enter Alison, an art director responsible for so many of our beautiful cards, and our resident crafting expert. Alison put together this super adorable egg carton craft idea, that’s simply perfect for Spring. Follow these three easy steps and let your Springtime mood be your guide!

1. Paint your egg cartons.
You can find these half dozen egg cartons at your local home renovation store, or plenty of craft stores. Use your imagination when it comes to paint colors, and if you’re crafting with kids, let them choose their own colors to make their craft uniquely theirs. These 2oz. acrylic paint bottles are a great choice.

2. Decorate your container with Washi Tape.
You can find a plethora of this kind of tape at any local craft supply store, and this is another opportunity for kids and adults alike to put their own style into the craft. Floral designs are always a great choice for that Spring feel.

3. Add additional flair with flowers or tags.
The sky’s the limit when it comes to accessory options. A good tip is to look at the seasonal options at your local craft store. You should be able to find plenty of Spring options at an affordable price.

These little containers are perfect for filling with surprises for Easter, plus, they would make a perfect teacher gift!

It’s summer. You’ve got some extra time on your hands. And you’d love to plan a crafternoon.

“What exactly is a ‘crafternoon’?” you may be wondering if you’ve never heard the term before. Simply put, it’s an afternoon solely devoted to the joy of crafting.

In other words, it’s a time to relax, have fun, and let your creative juices flow!

This summer, take respite from the heat and activity-filled zaniness to enjoy a lazy afternoon with one of these easy-to-make home and garden décor craft projects. (Lemonade or iced tea optional—but highly recommended!)